What is the Difference Between Hilum and Root of Lung?

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The hilum and root of the lung are two distinct structures related to the lungs. The main differences between them are:

  • Hilum: The hilum is an area on the medial aspect of each lung, where the connection between the parietal pleura (covering the rib cage) and the visceral pleura (covering the lung) takes place. It is the only site of entrance or exit of structures associated with the lungs. The hilum contains mostly bronchi and pulmonary vasculature, along with the phrenic nerve, lymphatics, nodes, and bronchial vessels.
  • Root of the Lung: The root of the lung is a group of structures that emerge at the hilum of each lung, just above the middle of the mediastinal surface and behind the cardiac impression of the lung. The root of the lung is formed by the bronchus, pulmonary artery, pulmonary veins, bronchial arteries and veins, pulmonary plexuses of nerves, lymphatic vessels, bronchial lymph glands, and areolar tissue, all of which are enclosed by a layer of the pleura. The root of the lung connects the lung to the heart and the trachea.

In summary, the hilum is an area where the structures of the lung enter and exit, while the root of the lung is the collection of structures that emerge at the hilum and connect the lung to the heart and trachea.

Comparative Table: Hilum vs Root of Lung

The hilum and root of the lung are two distinct components of the lungs. Here is a table comparing their differences:

Feature Hilum Root of Lung
Definition The hilum is an area of the lung where the root of lung enters and exits the lung. The root of the lung is a short broad pedicle connecting the medial surface of the lung with the structures that enter and exit at the hilum.
Location The hilum is located on the medial aspect of each lung, superior to the center of the lung's mediastinal surface. The root of the lung is located at the hilum of each lung, just above the middle of the mediastinal surface and behind the cardiac impression.
Structure The hilum is an area with only 2 dimensions. The root of the lung is a 3-dimensional body.
Components The hilum does not have specific structures within it, as it serves as the point of attachment for the lung root. The root of the lung is formed by structures such as the bronchus, pulmonary artery, pulmonary veins, bronchial arteries and veins, pulmonary plexuses of nerves, lymphatic vessels, bronchial lymph nodes, and areolar tissue.
Function The hilum serves as the point of attachment between the lung root and the lung, providing the only route via which other structures enter and exit the lung. The root of the lung anchors the lungs to the heart, trachea, and surrounding structures, allowing the lung to function effectively.

In summary, the hilum is an area on the lung where structures enter and exit, while the root of the lung is a structure formed by the bronchus, pulmonary artery, pulmonary veins, and other components that enter and exit the lung at the hilum.